Composer

:

William Billings

Genre

:

Miscellaneous

Style

:

Miscellaneous

Average_duration

:

2:21

"Chesterfield Death may dissolve my Body now" is a hymn composed by William Billings, an American composer born in Boston in 1746. The hymn was composed in 1778 and was first published in Billings' collection of hymns titled "The New England Psalm Singer" in 1779. The hymn is written in four-part harmony and is characterized by its simple melody and harmonies. It is a hymn of resignation and acceptance of death, with lyrics that reflect the Christian belief in the afterlife. The hymn is often sung at funerals and other solemn occasions. The hymn is divided into three movements, with each movement featuring a different melody and harmony. The first movement is slow and mournful, with a simple melody and harmonies that reflect the sadness and sorrow of death. The second movement is more upbeat and hopeful, with a melody and harmonies that reflect the Christian belief in the afterlife. The third movement is a return to the mournful melody and harmonies of the first movement, with the addition of a final cadence that brings the hymn to a close. Overall, "Chesterfield Death may dissolve my Body now" is a simple yet powerful hymn that reflects the Christian belief in the afterlife and the acceptance of death. Its simple melody and harmonies make it a popular choice for funerals and other solemn occasions.

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